Tag Archives: carers

More than 12 million UK adults lack basic digital knowhow, MPs say

An estimated 5.8 million British adults have never used the internet at all.

Britain is facing a “digital skills crisis” with more than 12 million adults lacking basic digital knowhow, MPs have said.

The Commons science and technology committee said systemic problems with digital education and training were costing the economy an estimated £63bn a year in lost income. Only urgent action from government, industry, schools and universities could prevent the skills shortage damaging future productivity and competitiveness, it said.

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The art of happiness

A number of high-profile artists have come together to create a restorative environment in a London psychiatric ward.

photo Nick Knight

Hidden away in south-west London is one of the most exclusive art galleries in the UK. Turner Prize winners and renowned fashion photographers are displaying their work for viewers at the Phoenix Unit – a secure psychiatric hospital in Tooting.

It’s home to 18 residents with severe and enduring mental health problems who live there, on average, between one and three years as they recover and regain their independence.

For now, the interior walls are decorated with the same calming, yet chilly, colours throughout, with the quiet room and activity room looking very similar. But the artists are coming.

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North Norfolk MP Norman Lamb and boxing legend Frank Bruno team up to help young people with mental health problems

 It is a cause close to both their hearts, and now a former Government minister and a boxing legend are teaming up to support young people with mental health problems.

North Norfolk MP Norman Lamb is backing a move by ex-world champion Frank Bruno to set up a charitable foundation to help some of the most vulnerable members of the community.

Mr Lamb has contacted Minister for Civil Society Rob Wilson to promote the initiative following a meeting with Mr Bruno in North Walsham last week.

He is hoping it may be possible for 15-17 year olds involved in National Citizen Service to support the work of the proposed foundation.

“I know Frank quite well through our previous joint action on mental health,” said Mr Lamb.

“We have worked together on a number of things and I have a high regard for him. He has been very open speaking about his mental health challenges.

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